Knowing in advance, even 5 years in advance, doesn't help one damn bit.
Pearl has repaid her room & board many times over, and you've been loyal to her. Shows you can maintain a healthy relationship, if the other half holds up their end.
I remember suggesting you get another dog when you lost the last one, so Pearl would have company and you would have a buddy when Pearl eventually wore out. You didn't, and now with all the shit going on in your life, if that was a good or bad move.